Responsible Gaming
Gambling should always be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While most people gamble responsibly, it is important to stay aware of the risks and know where to turn if gambling stops being fun. If you ever feel that your gambling is becoming a problem, please seek help without delay.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years or older to gamble online in New Zealand. For land-based casinos, the legal age is 20 years or older. It is illegal for anyone under the legal age to gamble. Always verify your age before creating an account or placing a bet. If you are underage, please do not gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Recognising the signs early can make a huge difference. Ask yourself if any of the following apply to you or someone you care about:
- Chasing losses – trying to win back money you have lost by gambling more.
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or colleagues.
- Spending more time or money on gambling than you intended.
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities because of gambling.
- Borrowing money, selling possessions, or lying to fund gambling.
- Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when trying to cut down or stop.
- Using gambling as a way to escape from stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Losing interest in other hobbies or activities you once enjoyed.
If you recognise several of these signs, it may be time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable betting sites offer tools to help you stay in control of your gambling. We strongly encourage you to use these features:
- Deposit Limits – Set a maximum amount you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly.
- Loss Limits – Cap the amount you are willing to lose within a set period.
- Reality Checks – Receive pop-up reminders showing how long you have been playing.
- Time-Outs – Take a short break from gambling (e.g., 24 hours to 6 weeks).
- Self-Exclusion – Block yourself from accessing a gambling site for a longer period (e.g., 6 months to 5 years or permanently).
These tools are available in the “Responsible Gaming” or “My Account” section of most licensed operators.
Support Organisations
If gambling is affecting your life or the life of someone you know, please reach out to a professional support service. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
New Zealand
- Gambling Helpline New Zealand – Call 0800 654 655 (free, 24/7) or visit www.pgf.nz for live chat and resources.
- Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand (PGF Services) – Provides free counselling and support. Visit www.pgf.nz or call the helpline above.
- Salvation Army Oasis Centres – Offer face-to-face gambling support across NZ. Find your nearest centre via www.salvationarmy.org.nz.
International Support
If you are visiting from outside New Zealand, please contact the responsible gambling organisation in your country:
- UK: GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Australia: Gambling Help Online – www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – www.bzga.de
- Other countries: Please search for your national problem gambling helpline or visit www.gamblingtherapy.org for worldwide support.
Seek Help Now
If you feel that gambling is no longer a choice but a compulsion, or if it is causing harm to you or your loved ones, do not wait. Reach out today. A single conversation can be the first step towards regaining control. You are not alone, and help is always available.